Wet Weather Camping Tips


Your camping trip doesn’t need to come to an end just because the wet weather sets in. However, if you are going to have the best time possible, you should be prepared. Follow these wet weather tips for your next camping trip - and don’t let the rain hold you back.

Prepare For Rain

Plan ahead. Monitor the weather forecasts immediately before you go away and look at some of the seven day forecasts online so you’ll know if severe rain is likely. Check if your tent is weatherproof, if it isn’t, coat the tent with some suitable proofing. Also, find out  as much about the location as you can. Are there shelters you can move to if the rain is torrential or is there nearby accommodation?

Before you go away:

  • Pack your tent at the top of your backpack so you have easy access to it when you arrive.
  • Check parking arrangements so you know how far you’ll have to walk to your camp site.
  • If you can, view a site map before you go away so that you can plan a good spot to pitch your tent. Try and find a location that is close to the the toilet/washing facilities.

Arriving On Site

If the weather is already bad when you get there, park as close as possible to your intended camping area; parking close by will reduce the amount of wet that gets tracked into your tent. Before you unpack anything else, pitch the tent so you have a dry, covered area. You’ll find some tips on pitching a tent in the rain here.

Pack The Right Clothing

Staying dry means choosing the right clothes. Pack waterproof clothing, or wear it if the weather is already severe. Take plenty of warm, soft socks and pack gloves and a hat, too. To further reduce your chances of getting wet and cold:

  • Begin with a base layer and select the material wisely - an ideal material is alpaca.
  • Wear a middle layer and an outer layer.
  • If cold weather is predicted, take an additional insulating layer for added warmth.
  • Choose sturdy footwear. If you intend hiking, look for non-slip boots/shoes that won’t let in the wet.

Select Your Camping Site Carefully

Try and select a suitable spot by viewing an online map or app before you get to your location. When pitching your tent, avoid flat areas as they tend to become sodden when it rains. And be careful that your chosen site is not too close to lakes, rivers and ditches. Sites on higher ground are usually better in wet weather. In addition:

  • Find a space that will offer shelter, but don’t pitch too close to anything heavy that could fall on your tent if lightning strikes or if the wind is strong.
  • When the tent is pitched, keep the porch area out of the direction of the wind.
  • Check the opening of the tent doesn’t flap or it will let in the rain.

Keeping The Inside Of Your Tent Dry

Choosing the right spot will reduce your chances of rain seeping into the tent. However, there will be plenty of other opportunities for wet to get in. To keep the inside dry:

  • Pack an extra groundsheet so you have a spare if it needs changing.
  • Take off your wet clothing straight away and store it away from your sleeping area
  • Use sealer bags to put your wet clothes in.
  • Ensure the tent has good ventilation to reduce condensation.

Plan For Meal Times

There are two major risks associated with cooking inside a tent. First, there is the possibility of a fire, and the other concern is the lack of ventilation. For safety reasons, campers often prefer to cook outside of the tent, but this might mean braving the elements and cooking outside. For a safer, drier cooking area:

  • Consider setting up designated kitchen, but check materials are fire resistant.
  • Set up an aluminum windshield.
  • Buy an outhouse designed for cooking outdoors.

Conclusion:

Don’t let wet weather spoil your time away! Plan well and be prepared so you are ready for the rainstorms. Take plenty of games to give you something to while away the hours if it gets too wet to go out, and pick your spot well to avoid flooding. The right clothing can also keep you dry, warm and comfortable. Woop! Wear’s range of activewear has been made with outdoors lovers in mind. To view our full range, visit our website.

Image: Flickr